If you're reading this, you're likely in a frustrating situation. Your Bobcat skid steer is down, you need parts, but you don't know exactly what parts you need because you don't know the serial number of your machine.
You know you have a Bobcat S185, but you don't know if it’s the right S185.
Finding your Bobcat’s serial number (also known as the PIN or Product Identification Number) is the single most important step in ordering the correct replacement parts. Bobcat iterates their machines constantly; an S570 manufactured in January might use a different hydraulic filter than an S570 manufactured in December of the same year.
In this guide, we will show you exactly where to find the plate on every generation of Bobcat Skid Steer, how to tell the difference between the Machine serial number and the Engine serial number, and how to use that number to buy the right parts manually.
The Short Answer (For the Rush Job)
Use this section for a quick check.
For most modern Bobcat Skid Steer Loaders (S-Series, M-Series, and R-Series), the serial number plate is located on the exterior of the frame on the operator’s right-hand side.
- Stand behind the machine.
- Walk to the right side (the passenger side, if it were a car).
- Look at the vertical face of the frame, usually below the lift arm and behind the bucket linkage.
- You are looking for a rectangular black or silver plate about the size of a smartphone.
Note: If the plate is missing or painted over, don’t panic. We will cover secondary locations further down in this guide.
Why Your Bobcat Serial Number is Vital for Parts Ordering
Bobcat manufactures machines in "Series." A single model number can run for 10+ years, but the internal components change drastically during that time. These changes are marked by Serial Breaks.
A "Serial Break" is a cutoff point in manufacturing.
- Example: The hydraulic pump for a Bobcat T190 might change at serial number 531711001.
- If your machine is 531710999, you need Pump A.
- If your machine is 531711005, you need Pump B.
Without checking your plate, you are essentially guessing. Guessing could lead to delays if the part you ordered is wrong, meaning more downtime for your machine.
Detailed Locations by Bobcat Series
Bobcat has moved the plate location over the decades. Here is where to look based on the age of your skid steer.
1. The R-Series and M-Series (Newer Models)
Includes models like S66, S76, S450, S510, S530, S550, S570, S590, S630, S650, S740, S750, S770, S850.
On these modern machines, Bobcat standardized the location to make it easier for service techs and owners. You will find the plate on the outer right-hand chassis. It is typically visible without lifting the cab or opening the rear door. It is riveted to the thick steel frame, usually just forward of the rear tire.
2. The G-Series and K-Series (Mid-2000s)
Includes popular models like the S130, S150, S160, S175, S185, S205, S220, S250, S300, S330.
For the legendary S185 and its siblings, the location is almost identical to the newer models. Check the right side of the loader frame, specifically the upright support that holds the loader arms.
- Tip: If you cannot see it, check inside the engine compartment. Open the rear tailgate. On some transitional models, the plate is on the inner wall of the engine bay, on the right-hand side.
3. The F-Series and C-Series (The "Classic" 700/800/900 Models)
Includes 743, 753, 763, 773, 863, 873, 963.
These workhorses have been around for decades, so the plates are often worn, painted over, or scratched.
- Primary Location: Behind the rear grill, on the main frame.
- Secondary Location: Inside the operator cab. Look down by your right foot, near the parking brake lever or the steering lever linkage.
- Tertiary Location: On the front of the machine, on the main frame rail, generally on the right side (viewed from the operator's seat).
4. The "Antique" Series (310, 400, 500, 600 Series)
If you are running a vintage Bobcat (clutch drive models), the serial number is often stamped directly into the metal of the right rear upright or found on a tag on the glove box door inside the cab.
The "Gotcha": Engine Serial vs. Machine Serial
This is the most common mistake we see at PartsOnline.com.
Your skid steer has two distinct serial numbers:
- The Machine Serial Number (VIN/PIN): This identifies the skid steer itself (frame, hydraulics, cab, electronics).
- The Engine Serial Number: This identifies the Kubota, Deutz, Perkins, or Bobcat (Doosan) engine inside.
Do not use your Engine Serial Number to order body or hydraulic parts. If you are ordering a starter, alternator, or fuel filter, the Engine SN is helpful. But if you are ordering a hydraulic cylinder seal kit, a door glass, or a drive motor, the Engine SN is useless.
How to tell them apart:
- Location: The Engine SN is always on the engine block itself (often on the valve cover or injection pump). The Machine SN is on the frame.
- Format: Bobcat Machine SNs are typically 9 digits long (often starting with A, B, or 5). Engine SNs look completely different depending on the manufacturer (e.g., Kubota engine numbers are often long strings of numbers stamped on the block).
How to Decode a Bobcat Serial Number (The 9-Digit Code)
Understanding what the numbers mean can help you verify you are looking at the right thing. Modern Bobcat serial numbers (post-2000s) generally follow a 9-digit format.
Example SN: A3L1 12345
Part 1: The Model/Engine Combination (First 4 Characters)
- The first four digits (e.g., A3L1) identify the Model and Engine combo.
- This code tells the system "This is a Bobcat S570 with a Tier 4 Diesel Engine."
- If you have two S570s, one might start with A3L1 and the other with B2J2. These are different generations and may require different parts.
Part 2: The Production Sequence (Last 5 Digits)
- The last five digits (e.g., 12345) are the unique ID for your specific machine. This tells you where your machine falls in the production line.
What if my plate is missing or unreadable?
Because Skid Steers live rough lives on construction sites and farms, plates often get scraped off or painted over during refurbishment. If you cannot find the sticker:
- Check for Stamps: Look in the standard locations mentioned above. Even if the sticker is gone, the number is often stamped into the steel chassis underneath where the sticker used to be.
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Check the ECM (Electronic Control Module): On newer machines with digital displays, you can often find the System Info screen on your dashboard.
- Turn the key to ON (engine off).
- Navigate to Information or Service Codes.
- Look for Machine Info. The VIN is often stored digitally here.
- Check your Bill of Sale/Insurance: It sounds obvious, but your insurance card or original purchase invoice will have the PIN listed.
- Call a Dealer: If you can find the Engine Serial number, a dealer may be able to cross-reference it to find the chassis number it was originally installed in (though this assumes the engine hasn't been swapped).
Maintenance Logs: The Pro Tip
Once you find your serial number today, do yourself a huge favor: Write it down. Take a picture of the plate with your phone. Better yet, take a permanent marker and write the serial number on the inside wall of the cab door or on your oil filter housing.
When you are out in the field and blow a hydraulic hose, you don't want to be scraping mud off a frame rail to find it.
Summary: Ready to Order?
Finding the serial number on your Bobcat Skid Steer is the key to unlocking accurate parts ordering.
- Look Right: Check the exterior right-hand frame.
- Check the Digits: Ensure you have the 9-digit Machine PIN, not the Engine number.
- Verify Fitment: Compare your number to the "Fits Serial Numbers..." notes on our product pages.
We do not have an automated lookup tool. If you need help verifying fitment, just contact us and we will gladly help you and ensure the part you buy is the part you need.
Found your number?
Browse our full collection of aftermarket Bobcat parts now and get your machine back to work.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I tell the year of my Bobcat Skid Steer by the serial number?
A: Not directly. Unlike cars, Bobcat serial numbers do not have a specific digit (like the 10th digit in a car VIN) that indicates the year. The serial number indicates the production sequence. To find the exact year, you must cross-reference your 9-digit PIN with a Bobcat dealer database or look for a separate "Date of Manufacture" stamp inside the cab or engine bay.
Q: Where is the serial number on a Bobcat S185?
A: On a Bobcat S185, the serial number plate is located on the exterior frame on the right-hand side (passenger side), usually behind the bucket linkage. If it is missing there, check the engine compartment on the right-hand inner wall.
Q: Can I order parts using just the model number (e.g., S570)?
A: You can, but to be 100% of fitment you should verify it with the serial number. Bobcat S570s were made for many years and went through several internal changes (Serial Breaks).
Q: Why does my Bobcat have two different serial numbers?
A: Your machine has a Machine PIN (for the frame/body) and an Engine Serial Number (for the motor). Always use the Machine PIN for hydraulic, cab, and electrical parts. Only use the Engine SN for internal engine components like pistons or injectors.